The FCC is asking consumers to be careful answering calls from unknown phone numbers. Scammers are calling victims hoping to get them to say the word "yes" during the conversation that's being recorded. The fraudster will later use the recording of the victim saying yes to authorize unwanted charges on the victim's utility or credit card account.

The scam works like this: a consumer answers a call from someone impersonating a representative from organizations that provide a service that the victim is most likely familiar with. The criminal could say they're with a utility company, a mortgage lender or a credit card company to name a few.

The scammer will ask "Can you hear me?" The caller records the victim saying yes, which they later use as a voice signature. This voice signature can be used to authorize fraudulent charges via telephone.

What you need to do

The FCC is telling consumers who receive a call like this to immediately hang up the phone. If you think that you have already received a call like this, you need to immediately check your bank and credit card statements as well as your telephone statement to see if there are any unauthorized charges.

If you find unauthorized charges, it's likely that you are a victim of what's known as "cramming." Report these charges as unauthorized immediately.

Don't answer calls from unknown numbers - This is the most obvious and simplest precaution. Let unknown calls go to voicemail.

If you answer and the caller (often a recording) asks you to hit a button to stop receiving calls, just hang up. Scammers often use these tricks to identify and target live respondents.

If you receive a scam call, write down the number and file a complaint with the FCC so it can help identify and take appropriate action to help consumers targeted by illegal callers.

Ask your phone service provider if it offers a robocall blocking service. If not, encourage your provider to offer one. You can also visit the FCC's website for information and resources on available robocall blocking tools to help reduce unwanted calls.